Obama: Embargo Is ‘a Burden’ on the Cuban People; ‘It’s Time to Lift the Embargo’

RUSH TRANSCRIPT:
"With the ability to earn your own living and to build something you can be proud of. That’s why our policies focus on supporting Cubans instead of hurting them. That’s why we got rid of limits on remittances so ordinary Cubans have more resources. That’s why we’re encouraging travel which will build bridges between our people and bring more revenue to those Cuban small business. That’s why we’ve opened up space for commerce and exchanges so Americans and Cubans can work together to find cures for diseases and create jobs and open the door to more opportunity for the Cuban people. As president of the united States, I’ve called on our Congress to lift the embargo. [ Applause ] It is an outdated burden on the Cuban people. It’s a burden on the Americans who want to work and do business or invest here in Cuba. It’s time to lift the embargo. But even if we lifted the embargo tomorrow, Cubans would not realize their potential without continued change here in Cuba."